An Illustrated History of the State of Washington, by Rev. H.K. Hines, D.D., The
Lewis Publishing Co., Chicago, IL., 1893, page 382
FRITZ BROWN, one of the well-known and respected citizens of Washougal, was
born in Germany, April, 4, 1828, a son of John P. and Margaret Brown. Fritz, the
youngest of seven children -- four sons and three daughters -- was apprenticed
to learn the painter's trade after completing his education, and for many years
followed the various branches of the business, sign work and ornamental paper
hanging having been his specialties. In 1847 he came to America, and for the
following nineteen years, was engaged as a journeyman in New York. In 1870, via
the Panama route, Mr. Brown removed to California, but, after following his
trade in San Francisco four years, he located in Portland, Oregon, and in 1880
came to Washougal, Clarke county, Washington. He soon afterward erected the
Brown Hotel, better known as the Washougal Park Hotel, which contains a band
stand, pavilion, and numerous grottos and arbors for the entertainment of
visitors and pleasure-seekers during the summer season. The grounds surrounding
the hotel contain beautiful shade and ornamental trees, and this is one of the
most inviting retreats in this section of the State. Mr. Brown conducted this
well-known resort from the time of inception until recently, when he rented it
to Rudolph Surber, the present proprietor. In addition to controlling the above
property, Mr. Brown is also engaged in fruit culture, owns the wharf and
warehouse at the steamer lauding, is a real-estate dealer and Notary Public, was
Constable of township No. 2 for a period of sixteen years, and is well and
favorably known throughout the community as a worthy and progressive citizen.
Mr. Brown was married in New York, but his wife died December 11, 1891,
leaving two children: Frankie and Fritz. In political matters, our subject is an
active and progressive Democrat. He takes an active interest in school and all
other public work pertaining to the welfare and development of Clarke county.
Submitted to the WA. Bios Project in September 2003 by Jeffrey L. Elmer
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Notice: These biographies were transcribed for the Washington Biographies
Project. Unless otherwise stated, no further information is available on the
individual featured in the biographies.